Derate The Hate

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Are The Walls You've Built Your Own Barriers To Happiness?

Friends, you hear me say it every week; It’s not what happens to us, but how we react to it that makes the difference. I am joined today by another remarkable guest that will share his story of resilience, transformation and personal growth. Through his personal story, and a bit of my own, we’ll explore how we often build walls that become barriers to our own success and life fulfillment, and more importantly, how to go about tearing them down.

Joining me today is Tony Schmaltz, a man who has faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever. Tony's journey is awe-inspiring. Through marriage he became an instant father, faced financial hardships with his wife, struggled with unhealthy familial boundaries and yet, through it all, he discovered the power of mindset and attitude in achieving success and happiness.

Tony's book, 'Wake the Bleep Up,' is a game-changer. It's all about uncluttering the mind, breaking free from bad habits, and finding true fulfillment. Tony's insights on vulnerability, compassion, and the importance of positive relationships are lessons we can all learn from.

In this week's episode, Tony shares how we can all overcome life's challenges, adopt a positive mindset, and make lasting changes in our lives. Get ready to be inspired, uplifted, and motivated to take charge of your own journey!

Takeaways

• Adversity is a part of life, and everyone faces challenges. It's how we overcome them that defines us.
• Mindset and attitude play a crucial role in achieving success and happiness. By adopting a positive mindset and being kind to others, we can attract positive outcomes.
• Uncluttering the mind and changing bad habits are essential steps in personal growth. Small changes can lead to significant improvements over time.
• Building positive relationships requires vulnerability and compassion. Seeing the humanity in others and treating them with respect can lead to better understanding and resolution of conflicts.
• Making a choice, committing to it, and practicing consistently are the keys to making lasting changes in our lives and the world.

Learn more about and connect with Tony Schmaltz by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

Knowledge Has Its Limitations, But With Conversation the Possibilities Are Endless

This week, we've got another incredibly insightful and thought-provoking discussion lined up for you. Joining me is Joel Bouchard, the brilliant mind behind the "From Nowhere to Nothing" podcast.

Joel and I dive deep into the fascinating world of philosophy and the power of curiosity in bridging the gaps between different perspectives. In a time where our society feels more polarized than ever, we explore how respectful and curious conversations can lead to greater understanding and connection.

We'll also touch on the complexities and limitations of knowledge, and how recognizing our own biases can open doors to new insights. Plus, we'll discuss the profound impact of technology on our perceptions and the importance of getting involved in our local communities to truly be the change we want to see in the world.

Takeaways

• Philosophy is a topic that everyone can engage in and discuss, as it encompasses all aspects of life.
• Engaging in respectful and curious conversations with people who have different perspectives can lead to a better understanding of others.
• Knowledge is complex and limited, and it is important to recognize our own biases and the limitations of our understanding.
• Getting involved in local communities and being the change we want to see in the world can have a positive impact on society.

Learn more about and connect with Joel Bouchard online by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

A Unique Way To Recognize and Make Our Emotions Work For Us

Today we’re diving deep into the flavorful world of emotions with our incredible guest, Kim Korte. If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate your reactions and interactions with others more effectively, you’re in for a treat!

Kim and I will be exploring the fascinating idea that our emotions are like flavors – think yucky, yummy, savory, and sweet. By understanding and distinguishing these emotional flavors, we can gain more control over our responses and make our interactions smoother and more meaningful.

We’ll also challenge some preconceived notions and talk about the importance of keeping an open mind. Personal growth is all about embracing new experiences and perspectives, and Kim’s insights from her book, 'Yucky Yummy Savory Sweet: Understanding the Flavors of Our Emotions,' are sure to inspire you.

So, get ready to discover the power of emotional awareness and learn how recognizing and managing your emotions can lead to positive change and better relationships. Stay tuned, because this conversation is packed with insights that you won't want to miss!"

Takeaways

• Emotional awareness is crucial for understanding and managing our reactions and interactions with others.
• Our emotions are like flavors, and by distinguishing and understanding them, we can have more control over our responses.
• Challenging preconceived notions and being open to new experiences and perspectives is essential for personal growth.
• Recognizing and managing our emotions can lead to positive change and better relationships.

Learn more about and connect with Kim Korte by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

Are We Being Manipulated To Hate Each Other?

This week, Wilk is joined for another powerful conversation with Monica Harris, the executive director of the Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism, better known as FAIR. Monica dives deep into the core of what it means to focus on our common humanity and resist the forces that seek to divide us. She makes a compelling case that discrimination in any form is wrong and that true equality is something we must all strive for.

Monica doesn't shy away from the tough issues, pointing out that the often-overlooked class divide could be the key to uniting all Americans. She shares personal stories and insights from her connections with working-class white people, emphasizing the critical role of communication and understanding.

Throughout this incredible conversation, Wilk and Monica tackle some heavy topics: the distraction of race, the unsustainable debt crisis in the US, and the importance of a colorblind society —not in saying that we should ignore our differences, but in treating everyone equally and with respect. Monica passionately argues for seeing and understanding others on a deeper level, beyond physical and immutable characteristics, and truly engaging with their unique experiences and challenges.

So, get ready to be inspired as Monica and I explore how focusing on our common challenges and experiences can bridge divides and promote unity.

Takeaways

• Discrimination in any form, for any reason, against anyone is wrong.
• Focusing on our common humanity is essential for unity and progress.
• The class divide is a significant issue that needs attention and can unite people.
• Communication and understanding are key to breaking down barriers and overcoming division. The conversation highlights the distraction of race and identity politics from more pressing issues such as unsustainable debt and economic challenges.
• Being colorblind means treating people equally regardless of their race or identity, while recognizing and respecting their unique experiences and challenges.
• Truly seeing and understanding others requires looking beyond physical characteristics and engaging with them on a deeper level.
• Focusing on common challenges and experiences can help bridge divides and promote unity among people.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

A Country in need of Healing, May Just Need Therapy

Welcome to another episode of the Derate The Hate podcast with your host, Wilk Wilkinson. Today, Wilk is joined by Phyllis E. Leavitt to delve into her upcoming book, "America in Therapy: A New Approach to Hope and Healing for a Nation In Crisis". In this compelling discussion, Leavitt explores innovative ways to bring hope and healing to a nation grappling with increasing divisiveness and violence. She underscores the urgent need to reverse these troubling trends by applying psychological and psychotherapeutic principles to improve the collective mental health of the country.

Phyllis highlights the transformative power of personal responsibility, managing destructive impulses, and fostering empathy and understanding towards others. She passionately argues for the importance of investing in families and dedicating resources to their well-being as foundational steps towards societal healing.

Wilk draws connections to his own work with the Braver Angels organization, which aims to bridge societal divides through grassroots efforts. This episode is packed with key insights on how to address the rising tensions in America, promote peace, and rebuild connections within our communities. Tune in to learn how psychology can pave the way for a healthier, more unified society.

Takeaways

• The rise of divisiveness and violence in society is a sign that America is in crisis and needs a new approach to hope and healing.
• The principles of psychology and psychotherapy can be applied to address the collective mental health of the nation.
• Taking responsibility for oneself and treating others with empathy and understanding are key to building peace and re-connection.
• Investing in families and allocating resources to support their well-being is crucial for healing and creating a better society.

Learn more about and connect with Phyllis E. Leavitt by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

Where Confidence & Arrogance Differ, & Why Being Kind Always Matters

Today, Wilk is joined by Alan Lazaros, who shares his remarkable journey of overcoming adversity and trauma to achieve true success and fulfillment. Alan emphasizes the crucial distinction between confidence and arrogance, underscoring that genuine confidence comes from self-reflection and healing past wounds, not from professional achievements alone.

Alan’s story highlights the importance of balancing personal development with professional success, illustrating that inner fulfillment is essential for overall well-being. He explores themes of empathy, compassion, and understanding, urging listeners to approach others with kindness and recognize that everyone is fighting their own battles.

The conversation also delves into issues like bullying, self-belief, and the need for therapy and mindset work to build self-worth. Alan's insights serve as a powerful reminder that fulfilled individuals do not harm others and that it is our responsibility to lead by example with kindness and respect.

Takeaways:

•  Adversity can be a catalyst for personal growth and transformation.
• There is a crucial difference between confidence and arrogance; true confidence stems from inner fulfillment.
•  Confronting past traumas and engaging in self-reflection are essential for personal development.
•  Balancing professional and personal growth is crucial for long-term success and well-being.
• Approach others with empathy and compassion, as everyone is battling something.
•  Bullying often stems from trauma and low self-belief; it’s important to stand up to bullies without becoming one.
• Personal growth, therapy, and mindset work are key to building self-worth and achieving goals.
• Fulfilled people do not hurt others, and it is our duty to lead by example with kindness and respect.

Join us for this enlightening conversation and be inspired to prioritize personal growth, empathy, and the true meaning of confidence in your life.

Learn more about and connect with Alan Lazaros by checking out the full show notes for this episode at  www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

As Perceptions Shift, Realities Transform; It Starts With A Conversation

A conversation that epitomizes the transformative power of dialogue. For this DTH conversation I am joined by two remarkable individuals, absolute icons in the de-radicalization space,  men I am honored to call friends. Today I am joined by Daryl Davis and Jeff Schoep, whose initial encounter sparked a journey of de-radicalization and unexpected connection.

Their conversation explores the profound impact of genuine dialogue on shifting perceptions and fostering understanding. We'll uncover the organic nature of human connection and the ripple effect of positive change that emanates from it.

At the heart of our discussion lies the theme of de-radicalization. We'll delve a bit into Jeff's journey, guided by the unwavering support and insight of Daryl Davis. Their exchange highlights the importance of personal stories and vulnerability in challenging preconceived notions and reshaping beliefs.

But this isn't just about individual transformation. We'll examine how ongoing conversations and relationships play a pivotal role in changing not only individuals but entire communities. As perceptions shift, realities transform, creating a domino effect of positive change.

Through their dialogue, Daryl and Jeff illuminate the power of conversation in bridging divides and dismantling barriers. Perception shapes reality, and by altering someone's perception, we have the power to change their reality.

So, join us my friends as we journey through the depths of human connection, exploring the profound impact of unexpected encounters, genuine dialogue, and the relentless pursuit of understanding.

Takeaways

• The organic nature of human connection and the impact of unexpected encounters.
• The role of Daryl Davis in Jeff Scoop's de-radicalization journey.
• The impact of genuine conversation on shifting perspectives and breaking down barriers. Perception shapes reality, and altering someone's perception can change their reality.
• Personal stories and vulnerability have the power to challenge preconceived notions and change perspectives.
• Ongoing conversations and relationships play a crucial role in changing people's attitudes and beliefs.
• Positive change has a ripple effect, impacting not only individuals but also communities and society at large.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

Authenticity and a Positive Mindset Lead to Self-Mastery

In this DTH episode, host Wilk Wilkinson engages in a powerful conversation with Eric McHugh, a dynamic web and tech entrepreneur. The conversation delves into self-mastery, mindset, energy frequency, and vibration, as well as the impact of AI-powered matchmaking and the significance of maintaining high vibration and authenticity in digital interactions. They explore how positivity and gratitude can drive success, both personally and professionally. Eric shares his thoughts on authenticity, the role of AI in modern matchmaking, and the impact of online interactions on relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of self-mastery and mindset for achieving success. 
•  How positivity, gratitude, and authenticity influence relationships and business.
• The benefits of AI-powered matchmaking in enhancing the dating experience. 
• The significance of maintaining high vibration and authenticity in digital interactions.

Chapters

00:00 DTH Introduction 
01:32 Guest Introduction and Background
04:11 Self Mastery through Simplicity and Adaptability
09:08 Overcoming Negative Mindsets and Finding the Right Energy
15:13 The Power of Gratitude and its Impact on Mindset
24:43 Manifestation of Mindset in Business Ventures
32:19 AI-powered Matchmaking and the Future of Relationships
39:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

Learn more about and connect with Eric McHugh online by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

Teetering on a Tightrope, A Courageous Bipolar Journey

In this episode, host Wilk Wilkinson is joined by author Steve W. Wilson to discuss his book, "Teetering on a Tightrope, My Bipolar Journey". They explore the severe mental health crisis in the US, particularly the challenges faced by those with bipolar disorder. Steve shares his traumatic childhood experience of being sexually assaulted and how it may have contributed to his mental health struggles. They discuss the two types of bipolar disorder and the depth of depressive episodes. They also highlight the inadequate support from insurance companies and the government, as well as the importance of mental health support groups and the increasing mental health issues among younger generations.

Takeaways

• There is a severe mental health crisis in the US, with around 50 million Americans suffering from mental illness.
• Bipolar disorder has two types: bipolar 1, characterized by extreme manic and depressive episodes, and bipolar 2, which involves severe depression.
• Support is crucial for those with mental health issues, and it is important to provide unconditional support rather than trying to fix or change them.
• Insurance companies and the government often fail to provide adequate resources and timely help for mental health issues.
• Mental health support groups play a vital role in providing support and combating isolation and loneliness.
• Younger generations are facing increasing mental health issues due to societal pressures, bullying, and the internet.
• Kindness, understanding, and compassion can significantly impact those struggling with mental health challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Severe Mental Health Crisis in the US
09:06 Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Depressive Episodes
12:41 The Importance of Support for Mental Health Issues
15:06 Inadequate Support from Insurance Companies and the Government
22:38 The Increasing Mental Health Issues Among Younger Generations
28:18 The Power of Kindness and Compassion in Mental Health

Learn more about and connect with Steve W. Wilson by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply)

Is a Civil "Is God Real?" Conversation Possible? 

In this episode of the Derate the Hate podcast, guest host, Julian Adorney, moderates a conversation between his wife, Cassie Kimbriel, a devout Christian, and his friend, Angel Eduardo, an atheist. The main topic of discussion is the existence of God. Angel argues that belief in God is unreasonable and implausible, while Cassie believes that the complexities of the universe and personal experiences point to the existence of a higher power. The trio discuss the problem of suffering and the concept of hell. The conversation highlights the different perspectives and challenges in discussing such a deeply personal and complex topic. In this conversation, Julian, Angel, and Cassie  delve into the importance of belief in God on an emotional level. They explore the role of emotional reasoning in shaping their beliefs and the significance of finding purpose and meaning in life. They also touch on the need for intellectual humility and open conversations when discussing religion and atheism. The conversation highlights the damaging effects of tribalism and the importance of respectful and compassionate dialogue.

Key Takeaways

• Different perspectives on the existence of God are discussed, with Angel arguing that it is unreasonable and Cassie presenting personal experiences and the complexities of the universe as evidence for God's existence.
• The problem of suffering and the concept of hell are also explored, with Cassie suggesting that suffering is a result of human choices and brokenness, and hell is the consequence of choosing to be outside of God's presence.
• The conversation highlights the challenges and complexities of discussing deeply personal and philosophical topics. Belief in God is often rooted in emotional reasoning rather than solely logical explanations.
• Finding purpose and meaning in life is important for human existence.
• Intellectual humility is crucial when discussing religion and atheism.
• Open conversations and respectful dialogue can lead to deeper relationships and a better society.
• Tribalism and arrogance hinder productive discussions and understanding.

Learn more about and connect with Julian, Angel and Cassie by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow the DTH podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) ,  YouTube,  Substack 

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.